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A community rallies together to help

Matthew Drope has a bone marrow disease called aplastic anemia. He had a bone transplant Dec. 13, thanks to his younger brother Dylan.

Matthew Drope has a bone marrow disease called aplastic anemia. He had a bone transplant Dec. 13, thanks to his younger brother Dylan.

"Since his diagnosis in September, Matt has been in treatment at the Children's Hospital in Vancouver," said his father Thane. "He has been in isolation since his bone marrow transplant, but in the past week has shown clear signs that the transplant has been successful and he continues with his recovery. We hope he can return to the Sunshine Coast by the end of February.

"We would like to take this opportunity to extend our gratitude to all the people who have contributed to the support for his family. Words cannot express the overwhelming appreciation we all feel for this community."

Matthew has been in hospital since September, and his family has felt a significant financial burden. Dropes Little Helpers collected spare change over the Christmas holidays in cans placed in local shops and business. To date $2,152 has been collected for the Drope Family. A very generous community member also stepped up, donating $2,000 to help the Dropes after hearing about the fundraising appeal. Other donations have come in through a trust account set up at the Sunshine Coast Credit Union as well.

"I am so proud to live in a community where people rally together to help those in need," said Angela Cruikshank of Dropes Little Helpers.

Donation cans will remain in local shops. To make larger donations, contact the Sunshine Coast Credit Union Trust for Matt member No. 72510.

- Submitted